Today, Governor Roy Cooper released the following statement on the passing of Pasquotank Correctional Officer Wendy Shannon:

"I'm deeply saddened that this brutal attack has taken the life of Correctional Officer Wendy Shannon who was doing her job protecting the public. Our hearts go out to the victim, her family, friends and coworkers. Prisons and their employees help keep our communities safe, and I've directed state prison officials to take the necessary steps to improve prison safety."